The Snowshoe Festival

An Annual Celebration of Winter, Tradition, and Community

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Join us in the western Maine foothills to celebrate winter, tradition, and community at the annual Snowshoe Festival—a uniquely Maine event that honors the region's heritage in snowshoe making. Held in Norway, the festival features something for everyone: snowshoe races (2K, 5K, and 10K), guided walks, family-friendly snowshoe games, and a spirited festivities with live music and local artists.

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First recognized in 2012 by the Maine Downtown Center for its distinct cultural character, the Snowshoe Festival proudly shines a light on Norway’s legacy as “The Snowshoe Town of America.” From the mid-1800s to the late 20th century, four major snowshoe manufacturers—Snowcraft, Tubbs, H.H. Hosmer, and Dunham—called Norway home. Among them was Mellie Dunham, the first commercial snowshoe maker to outfit Admiral Peary’s North Pole expedition. Dunham was also a celebrated fiddler, famously invited by Henry Ford to perform traditional tunes across the country.

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In tribute to this unique blend of craftsmanship and music, the Norway Snowshoe Festival pairs outdoor adventure with cultural celebration, inviting locals and visitors alike to embrace the season and step into history—snowshoes and all.